Summing it Up : Preventing Pollution Starts with You
Pollution prevention and good stormwater management is essential to protecting water quality . All activities from agriculture , urban development , industrial , and RESIDENTIAL activities influence how much stormwater will enter our water sources and what potential pollutants it will carry . EVERYONE is responsible for working to reduce the impacts of stormwater runoff .
Remember these pollution solutions : �Do not dispose of household hazardous wastes in sinks , toilets , or storm drains .
� Use a commercial carwash that treats or recycles its wastewater , or wash your car on your lawn so that water infiltrates the ground . Washing your car and degreasing auto parts in your driveway can send detergents and other contaminants through storm sewer systems .
� Do not dump automotive fluids into storm drains . In some cases this has the same result as dumping these materials directly into a water body .
� Repair leaks and dispose of used auto fluids and batteries at designated drop-off or recycling locations .
� When walking your pet , remember to pick up wastes and dispose of them properly . Pet waste can be a major source of bacteria and excess nutrients in local waters . Flushing pet waste is the best disposal method .
� Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly . Excess fertilizers and pesticides applied to lawns and gardens wash into storm sewers and pollute streams .
� Do not water your lawn too much , as it causes runoff .
� Compost or mulch yard wastes . Yard clippings and leaves can wash into storm drains and contribute nutrients and organic matter to streams .
� Use non-colored mulch from native trees whenever possible . � Use pest control methods minimizing pesticide applications whenever possible . � Cover piles of dirt or mulch used in landscaping projects .
� Inspect your septic system every 3 years and pump your tank as necessary . Leaking and poorly maintained septic systems release nutrients and pathogens — bacteria and viruses — that can be picked up by stormwater and discharged into nearby water bodies . Such pathogens can cause public health problems and environmental concerns .
� Volunteer in your City ’ s next litter clean-up event .
� Attend public hearings or meetings on stormwater so that you can express your concerns .
� Report all stormwater violations to the City . � Keep learning about stormwater runoff and tell a friend !
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